Mature students make up a sizable portion of our community here at Durham College (DC), and they’re as unique as the life experiences that have brought them to our campus.
DC is committed to providing mature students with everything they need to achieve academic success and launch their new careers with confidence.
“When you're coming out of high school, school can be more exploratory and light hearted. But when you have a family to support, or you have to take time off work, it’s a heavy decision,” said Melinda Kelly, Senior Student Recruitment Officer. “It’s important to show mature students how we’re going to get them to their goals and their final career destination. We want to arm them with the information they need to make the right decision.”
Whether you’re returning to school after a gap year or preparing to re-enter the workforce after raising a family, you need unique support as you prepare for your post-secondary journey. With that in mind, we’ve launched a series of Mature Student Webinars designed specifically to give you the information you need about returning to school, paying for your education, overcoming challenges to excel in your studies, and much more.
These virtual sessions are held every other Wednesday, from 6 to 7 p.m. and are hosted by members of our Student Recruitment team. To register, visit our Mature Student website and check the calendar for the next scheduled session; we’ll rotate them, so don’t worry if you miss one. Attend all six, and you’ll learn the following lessons; and lots more!
How to choose your future career
You can’t begin your journey until you know your destination. Together, we’ll figure out how to align your education with your career goals. By sharing effective research strategies and career planning resources, we’ll get you pointed in the right direction.
Members of our recruitment team will be on hand to answer your questions, and you can also schedule a one-on-one appointment with them to learn more about the program that interests you and map your next steps with confidence.
How to finance your education
We’ll walk you through the financial aid process and help you find the best option for funding your education. DC has $5 million in scholarships, bursaries and awards available, with many of them specifically tailored to mature students. In addition, we’ll cover OSAP, external scholarships and employer-sponsored funding opportunities.
We’ll also share practical tips for managing your finances while in school.
How DC will support you
No matter how long you’ve been out of school, you can succeed in your post-secondary studies, and we’re here to help.
You’ll learn all about our extensive support services, from peer tutoring, academic support and advising to health and wellness. Workshops are available on a variety of topics, from essay writing to nutrition.
By making sure your experience is flexible and accessible, you’ll be able to focus on your studies and achieving your goals in and out of the classroom.
How to overcome unique challenges
School can feel overwhelming, especially if you haven’t been a student for a while. We’ll address a number of the challenges mature students face, including time management and shoring up your academic confidence.
Whether you need help juggling family, work, and school or need some tips for getting back into student mode, our experts will give you actionable strategies and resources to help you succeed.
How to find a program that fits your schedule
Life is busy, and our flexible learning options are designed to reflect that. We’ll help you find the program that works for you, whether it’s in-person, hybrid or fully online.
Whichever program you enroll in, you’ll have our support in making the most of it. From DC’s online learning platforms and modules to academic supports available for remote learners, you’ll learn to excel in any study format.
How to get credit for your prior learning and life experience
Your previous education or work experience could give you credit toward your program at DC! We’ll explain how to transfer credits and leverage the Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process to fast-track your education.
You’ll learn what types of credits are eligible for transfer and how to submit documentation, as well as examples of skills and knowledge that qualify for PLAR.
To learn more about how DC can help you fulfill your goals and register for one of the upcoming webinars, visit our Mature Student website. Have questions? Email us at recruitment@durhamcollege.ca or call 905.721.3126.
When planning your academic future, you need all of the right info to make it count. At Durham College (DC), our student recruitment team is ready to help you explore every option.
You may meet one of our recruiters at an event like Open House, out in the community at the Oshawa Centre or they may come to you for a presentation at your school. Wherever you encounter them, they’re here to give you the inside scoop on DC from our two modern and inviting campuses to our 145+ market-driven programs and beyond.
“We are the people who know a little bit about everything,” said Rachel Beerman, Student Recruitment Marketing Specialist.
Whether you’re still considering your future goals and career path, or need to ensure you meet the admission requirements for your program of choice, our recruiters will guide you every step of the way until you’re ready to submit your application and begin your DC journey.
There’s no shortage of reasons why prospective students should consider a future at DC, according to Maico Padillo, Student Recruitment Officer.
“We’re a mid-sized college; we’re not too small and not too big. We’re the perfect size for a student that’s looking for a community,” he said.
He also highlights the wealth of hands-on learning opportunities that will allow students to put their studies to the test, from field placements to co-op roles and work-integrated learning projects.
“A ton of our programs give you real-world experience before you graduate, giving you an advantage when you hit the job market. We bridge the gap between theory and practice.”
There are also a number of unique opportunities provided by DC’s close relationship with Ontario Tech University. Many programs are designed to provide a direct pathway from college to university. Even students who don’t transfer will benefit from the many resources provided at shared facilities like the Campus Library and Campus Recreation and Wellness Centre.
Although recruiters encounter thousands of prospective students each year, they’re always happy to see familiar faces turn up on campus.
“It’s a really rewarding experience when you’ve been working with somebody for a period of time, and they choose a program and they get in, and they’re really excited about it,” said Beerman.
Padillo is also passionate about helping people find their place at DC.
“When students approach me on campus and say, ‘I finally made it’, it makes me so happy,” he said. “Getting to see those students really brings it all together.”
Connect with our student recruiters today and learn more about DC. You can schedule a virtual one-on-one appointment with a student recruitment officer, book a campus tour or join us at Open House on Saturday, November 9.
All campuses and operations are open; classes and activities will proceed as scheduled.
All campuses and operations are open; classes and activities will proceed as scheduled.
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